
In this Article
The Design and Manufacturing of Industrial Computers for IoT Applications
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in the industrial sector is gaining momentum. From factories and manufacturing plants to transportation and logistics, industrial IoT has the potential to revolutionize the way we operate and streamline processes.
One crucial component of this emerging ecosystem is industrial computers, which play a vital role in connecting and interacting with IoT devices. The design and development of these computers require careful consideration of the unique demands imposed by IoT applications. In this article, we will explore these demands and the key factors to keep in mind when designing industrial computers for IoT applications.
The IoT Evolution: A Closer Look at IIoT, AIoT and MIoT
In this article, we take a closer look at four key types of IoT: Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT), Cellular Internet of Things (CIoT) and Mobile Internet of Things (MIoT).
Understanding the Challenges
Industrial computers used in IoT applications face a set of challenges that distinguish them from their commercial counterparts. These challenges include:
1. Robustness and Reliability
Industrial environments can be harsh and demanding, exposing computers to extreme temperatures, vibrations, and other environmental factors. Therefore, designing industrial computers that can withstand such conditions is crucial. This involves selecting robust components, implementing efficient cooling mechanisms, and ensuring reliable power supply.
2. Connectivity and Compatibility
IoT devices come in various shapes and sizes, each with unique connectivity requirements. Industrial computers must support multiple communication protocols and interfaces to seamlessly connect and interact with a wide range of IoT devices. Ensuring compatibility with common IoT communication standards is equally important.
3. Security and Data Protection
With the proliferation of IoT devices, security and data protection have become critical concerns. Industrial computers must incorporate robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access. Encryption, authentication mechanisms, and secure data transmission protocols should be integral parts of the design.
Key Considerations in Design
To address these challenges effectively, here are some key considerations in the design of industrial computers for IoT applications:
1. Scalability and Flexibility
Industrial IoT deployments often require a large number of connected devices. Therefore, industrial computers should be designed with scalability in mind. This includes the ability to support a high number of IoT devices, expandable storage options, and modular architecture to accommodate future upgrades and expansions.
2. Enhanced Performance and Processing Power
IoT applications generate vast amounts of data that need to be processed and analysed in real time. Industrial computers should be equipped with powerful processors, sufficient memory, and high-performance storage to handle data-intensive tasks efficiently.
3. Industrial-Grade Components and Certifications
To ensure robustness and reliability, industrial computers should be built using industrial-grade components. These components are designed to withstand challenging environments and operate reliably for extended periods. Additionally, certifications such as IP (Ingress Protection) ratings and MIL-STD (Military Standard) compliance provide assurance of durability and performance in industrial settings.
Design | Develop | Test | Manufacture
Here’s a selection of our design, manufacturing & associated services: –
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Design to Order: OEM/ODM Embedded Product Design Services
For customers designing a brand-new product from scratch
or working with an existing prototype.
- Industrial and Embedded PC Design and Manufacturing
- Custom Panel PCs and HMIs
- Custom Racks, Towers and Mini-ITX Computers
- Rugged, Portable Peli Case PCs
- Prototyping
- Rapid Prototyping: 3D Printed Cost-Effective Prototypes
- Multiple prototype versions, different design variations and flexible design capabilities
- Prototyping pre checks
- Hardware and Software compatibility
- Thermal and Environmental testing
- Custom PCB / Carrier Board Design
- COM Express, Qseven, SMARC, Jetson, Raspberry Pi
- Custom Chassis Design
- Custom Cables, Custom Cooling and Custom Power Supplies
- Custom Back Panels and Faceplates
- Custom Metal Work (internal brackets, mounting brackets)
- Touchscreen Integration and Display Enhancements
- Custom LCD Displays: 7″ – 21″
- Integration of PCAP and Resistive touch technologies
- Optical Bonding, Anti-reflective and Anti-glare coatings
- All products are Designed for Manufacture
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Build to Order: System Integration and Customisation Services
Take an existing system and we can:
- Custom hardware specifications
- (CPU, RAM, I/O, Industrial-Grade Storage, RAID)
- Chassis Customisation and Branding
- Custom BIOS
- Long Term Availability (5+ years)
- Software – Custom OS Image
- Custom Packaging and branding
- Integrating newly designed or existing hardware into a larger system
Build to order Racks and Towers, Peli Case PCs and Mini-ITX PCs
Embedded Software Services
Porting, Integration & Deployment
- Windows image capture from customers HDD
- Linux and Android image capture from customers HDD
- Windows/Linux/Android Deployment from customers image
- Custom Windows images, create and deploy
- Custom Linux and Android images
- Update management
- Custom BIOS
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Contact Us for Your Industrial and Embedded Computing Needs
At BVM, we specialize in designing and manufacturing industrial computers tailored to meet the unique requirements of IoT applications. With our extensive experience and expertise, we are well-equipped to deliver reliable and robust solutions for a wide range of industries.
Contact our sales team today to discuss your industrial and embedded computing needs. You can reach us at 01489 780144 or via email at sales@bvmltd.co.uk. Our team of experts is ready to provide you with personalized solutions to propel your IoT projects forward.
Industrial PCs
Industrial Computers, Box PCs and Embedded Systems available with Intel i3 / i5 / i7 / Celeron / Atom and AMD Ryzen Embedded CPU’s.
Industrial Panel PCs
7″ to 24″ Touchscreen Panel PCs for industrial applications available with Intel i3 / i5 / i7 / Celeron / Atom and AMD Ryzen CPU’s.
Industrial Motherboards
Industrial embedded motherboards and SBC’s are available in a range of factor sizes; from Mini-ITX, 3.5″ SBC’s, NUC to Pico-ITX modules.
Remember, when it comes to designing industrial computers for IoT applications, BVM is your trusted partner.
We like to make life easier ….
BVM supply a wide and diverse range of Industrial and Embedded Systems.
From Industrial Motherboards, SBCs and Box PCs, to Rack Mount computers and Industrial Panel PCs.
Our technical & commercial team members will always provide you with valuable but impartial advice around the products and services that BVM provide. With their collective backgrounds, they’ll provide you with the benefit of their knowledge and experiences when & where you need it. We’ll always help you in the first instance and get back to you when additional information is required.
You can Call us on +(0) 1489 780 144 and talk to one of the team | E-mail us at sales@bvmltd.co.uk | Use our quick contact form here